In comparison the total numbers for the same period in the Finishes and Interiors Sector are:
Number of registered apprentices:
- England:
- Interior Systems Installer ST0388 = 90 (average annual starts 150)
- Plasterer ST0096 = 470 (average annual starts 629)
- England old framework (VQ outcome) = 62 Interior System, 240 Plastering
- Scotland = 88 Interior Systems, 70 Plastering
- Wales = 9 Interior Systems, 51 Plastering
- Completed VQ’s in Interior Systems = 1720
- Completed VQ’s in Plastering = 1380
A few factors will have contributed to the thriving numbers, including the Apprenticeship Employer Grant of £5,000, which was launched by the Scottish Government and SDS back in 2020-21. Additionally, those employers were supported by approximately £1.25m in CITB attendance grants. To date, there are 4,500 apprentices in Scotland with Levy-registered employers, who benefit from just over £90m in direct and indirect grants from CITB and SDS.
With much of the industry relying on word-of-mouth methods to recruit, it can be difficult to reach a more diverse range of applicants. Looking ahead, FIS is keen to support employers in this space, helping them create a more inclusive workplace, where the sector can benefit from the wide range of skills and traits.
George Swann FIS Skills and Training Lead says. “Wherever you are located in the UK, if your organisation is looking to take on apprentices now is the time to get vacancies up on platforms like Construction TalentView: Employer Registration and National Apprenticeship Services: Creating an Apprenticeship Advert to see existing vacancies go to: Find Apprenticeships Dryliners .
FIS is happy to support with any skills and training questions. Contact George on 07553 874838.
FIS Regional Meetings
With labour shortages and recruitment a key challenge within the sector, FIS is hosting a series of breakfast meetings to address the skills shortages. These events will focus on a collective response to labour shortages and attracting the next generation of workers.
See more news likes this
Demand for construction workers high despite economic uncertainty
Against a backdrop of economic challenge, rising materials and labour costs, new figures from CITB reveal that almost 225,000 extra workers will be required to meet UK construction demand by 2027. CITB’s annual Construction Skills Network (CSN) report shows that: •...
No Going Back: creating career opportunities for ex-offenders
FIS is working with No Going Back (NGB), an innovative programme of training, support, employment, and housing funded and driven by 35 Livery Companies working collaboratively to reduce re-offending. With Employment being such a major part of changing people’s lives...
Show your support for National Apprenticeship Week
National Apprenticeship Week will take place between 6 to 12 February 2023 and the theme for this year has been unveiled as Skills for Life, reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and...



